NORTH FLORIDA (WSVN) — A reunion took place in North Florida as an African tortoise, missing since 2020, was found and reconnected with her owners after three and a half years of wandering.

The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office made the discovery over the weekend, spotting the tortoise attempting to cross a state highway, just five miles from her home. Concerned for her well-being, they transported her to an animal refuge.

Wildlife experts managed to identify the owner through a Facebook post detailing the tortoise’s escape from the yard in April 2020. By comparing photos taken at the refuge with those in the post, they confirmed it was the same beloved pet.

Although the tortoise was a little worse for wear, having endured multiple cold winters without heat, the refuge assured she’s on the path to recovery.

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